More than 300 students explore skilled trades careers at NII's Built to Lead event

More than 300 students wired outlets, became virtual boilermakers, used a CNC router, explored 3D printing, tested their simulated welding skills and much more, at the Nuclear Innovation Institute’s (NII) Built to Lead event hosted last week at the Grey County Sydenham Campus, to inspire young women’s future careers in the skilled trades.

Hosted by the NII, in partnership with the Bluewater District School Board, Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board, Georgian College, Grey County Sydenham Campus and Grey Bruce Makers, the April 29 event featured 25 local unions, employers and community training organizations, offering students the chance to explore hands-on activities, meet women working in the trades, and learn about pathways into apprenticeship programs.

During the day, students visited as part of field trips arranged by regional schools while the evening open house welcomed young women and their families to explore interactive demonstrations and speak with industry representatives.



A student tries her hand at bending sheet metal with Sheet Metal Workers Local 473

“This event is all about possibility," said Jessica Linthorne, president and chief executive officer of the NII. "Whether students have always been curious about the trades or they attended because a teacher or parent nudged them through the door, the NII is pleased to help introduce them to careers that offer good pay, creative challenges and the pride of building something real.”

“We are grateful to the NII for facilitating another incredible day for students to deepen their awareness and understanding of skilled trades careers and apprenticeship pathways open to them beyond secondary school,” said Sheryl Elliott, superintendent of education at the Bluewater District School Board. “Students were excited to test-drive the virtual and hands-on activity stations while putting their networking skills into practice through face-to-face conversations and connections with industry partners.”

“The Built to Lead event offered an invaluable opportunity for our students to explore skilled trades, providing hands-on experiences and clear pathways to future careers," said Alex Van Wieringen, superintendent of education at the Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board. "We extend our sincere gratitude to the NII for organizing this inspiring event and thank all our partners for the successful collaboration in making this possible for our young students.”



Trying out welding skills with a virtual welding simulator



Exploring the inside of a CANDU nuclear reactor with a virtual reality tour from Candu Energy, an AtkinsRéalis company